Summer’s coming! And you know what that means. (websites located in address)

Chicago’s got it all… beaches, parks, killer views, shows, piers. You name it, this town’s got it going on once the weather starts heating up.

Let me hip you to six sweet summer spots you got to check out. I’ll even throw in some details like location and insider tips. Let’s start!

1. Lincoln Park Conservatory 

Need an oasis from the concrete jungle? Head to the Lincoln Park Conservatory, tucked away in one of the city’s best green spaces – Lincoln Park.

Step inside this plant lover’s paradise and it’s like you’ve been transported to the tropics. Lush greenery abounds in the five different show houses like exotic jungle and fragrant desert. 

Who knew you could find a Hawaiian plantation and Fern Room right in Chicago?

The admission is pay-what-you-want. That’s right, name your own affordable price. In summer, make sure to check out the lively butterfly displays flitting around. The perfect nature escape without leaving the city.

Address: 2391 N Stockton Dr, Chicago, IL 60614

Summer Highlight: Vibrant butterfly displays

2. 360 Chicago 

Want a bird’s eye view of the city from 1,000 feet up? Then you got to hit up 360 Chicago, on the 94th floor of the Hancock Center skyscraper.

Flash through the clouds in 40 seconds aboard America’s fastest elevators. Then feast your eyes on those sweet 360 degree panoramic views of Chicago’s world-famous skyline and Lake Michigan. You can see for miles up here!

Go at sunset for a real stunner when the city lights start sparkling as dusk falls – so beautiful. And good news, they got drinks and dining if all that vista gazing made you hungry. The views from the top of the Hancock can’t be beat.

The Deets: 875 N Michigan Ave, Ste 94, Chicago, IL 60611

Insider Tip: Buy your tickets online beforehand so you can skip the box office line.

3. Starbucks Reserve Roastery – 

You can’t miss the Starbucks Reserve Roastery, the biggest Starbucks ON THE PLANET. This is no ordinary Starbucks, but a coffee experience on a whole new level.

Spread out over four stories and 43,000 square feet, this spot lets you follow the coffee creation process from start to finish. We’re talking exclusive small-batch roasts, multiple brew methods, and coffee-based cocktails.

Breathe in that delicious aroma of beans roasting in-house. Explore different coffee flights. Even take a free behind-the-scenes tour to see the roasting magic happen. 

For coffee nerds and caffeine devotees, this is nirvana.

Address: 646 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611

Insider Tip: Sign up for a complimentary Roastery tour. You know you want to.

4. The Chicago Theatre 

First opened way back in 1921, this iconic venue is modeled after the fancy Opera de Paris with unbelievable French baroque architecture inside.

Y’all know I’m talking about those glittering chandeliers, plush seats, the whole deal. Catch a hilarious comedy show or a Broadway musical in this storied performance hall. Hamilton and Moulin Rouge are playing this summer – score those tix!

Going to the Chicago Theatre feels like stepping back in time – but with great modern entertainment. An absolute Windy City must-do.

Address: 175 N State St, Chicago, IL 60601

Summer Suggestion: See a smash hit musical like Hamilton!

5. Navy Pier

If you’re hitting Chicago with the fam, head straight to Navy Pier for that nonstop family fun. This bustling pier on Lake Michigan has it ALL.

Hop on the iconic Ferris wheel, catch skyscraper views and skyline views with Flyover, challenge the kiddos to mini golf. Need a food break from the action? Grab some ice cream and stroll while the boats sail by.

Once the sun sets, the fireworks start! Navy Pier puts on some sweet shows in summer. Ride the trolley to zip around this place quicker.

No matter your age, there’s something for everyone at Navy Pier.

Address: 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611

Top Tip: The trolley makes navigating easy!

6. North Avenue Beach

When the temperature climbs, hit the sandy shores to chill in the sun and dip your toes in Lake Michigan. Feeling those ocean vibes right here in the city!

Hang at North Avenue Beach to work on your tan or play volleyball with some friendly locals. The atmosphere’s popping here. Or for a more peaceful day, try smaller Oak Street Beach downtown.

Build sandcastles, go for a refreshing swim, or just lay back on a towel and relax to the sound of the waves. Don’t forget the sunscreen and shades!

Top Beaches: North Avenue, Oak Street, 12th Street

Essentials: Towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, book

Chicago brings the heat in the summer! What spot are you most amped to hit up once it gets sunny? 

Let me know in the comments below.